Instagram verification can make a profile look more trustworthy. Today, Instagram offers more than one path to verification. You may qualify through Meta Verified, a paid subscription, while some notable accounts can still receive verification through Instagram’s traditional eligibility process.
What Does The Instagram Verified Badge Mean?
The blue badge is a signal that Instagram has confirmed an account’s authenticity. It does not automatically mean the account is famous, influential, or endorsed by Meta. The meaning can differ depending on how the account was verified.
For creators and individuals, Meta Verified uses identity checks and provides benefits such as account support and protection against impersonation. Businesses can also access Meta Verified plans designed for professional accounts.
How To Get Verified With Meta Verified
For many users, Meta Verified is the most direct option.
To check whether you can subscribe:
- Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
- Open the menu and look for Meta Verified in the account or settings area.
- Select the Instagram profile you want to verify.
- Review the available subscription and eligibility information.
- Follow the identity verification instructions.
- Submit the required government-issued identification if requested.
- Complete any additional authentication steps Instagram provides.
Meta requires applicants to meet its eligibility rules. These can include being at least 18 years old, having an eligible account with some existing activity, and submitting identification that matches the account information. Instagram may also ask for a selfie video or other verification information in some cases.
How To Request Traditional Instagram Verification
The traditional verification route is different from Meta Verified. It is intended for accounts that represent a well-known person, brand, organization, or entity and have a strong public presence.
To request it, open Instagram, go to your profile, open the menu, and find the account verification option. Instagram will ask for information about your identity or organization and may request documents.
Being notable is important here. Instagram has historically considered whether an account is authentic, unique, complete, and notable. Media coverage and genuine public interest can help demonstrate notability.
There is no guaranteed follower number for traditional verification. Having thousands or even millions of followers does not automatically qualify an account.
What You Should Do Before Applying
Before submitting a verification request, make your profile look complete and authentic. Check these areas:
- Use your real name or the recognized name of your brand.
- Choose a clear profile picture that represents you or your organization.
- Write a useful and accurate bio.
- Keep your account active and public when applying through the traditional route.
- Add links to your official website.
- Avoid misleading information, fake engagement, or attempts to impersonate another person.
- Turn on two-factor authentication to improve account security.
Your profile should also follow Instagram’s Terms of Use and Community Guidelines. Policy violations can create problems during verification and may affect an existing badge.
Can You Buy Instagram Verification?
You should not pay a person who promises to get your account traditionally verified. There is no legitimate shortcut through an agent, follower seller, or unofficial service.
Meta Verified is different because it is an official subscription offered by Meta. If you choose this route, subscribe through Instagram or another official Meta channel rather than sending money or identification documents to someone privately.
What Happens If Instagram Rejects You?
A rejection does not necessarily mean you can never become verified. Review your profile, improve its authenticity and public presence, and make sure your information is accurate before trying again. Do not repeatedly submit rushed applications.
Most importantly, do not buy followers or fake news coverage. Verification is meant to establish authenticity, not reward artificial popularity.
Instagram can also remove verification badges when account requirements are no longer met.
